Moth Zoologist

Moth by Zoologist Perfumes is a deeply evocative, complex fragrance that unfolds like a gothic narrative. It begins with a powerful, sharp blast of spicy oud, smoky resin, and dusty florals—dominated by saffron, cumin, and clove—that feels immediately intense and challenging. This phase is often compared to mothballs or a forgotten, musty attic, with a heavy, medicinal sweetness that some describe as unsettlingly animalic. Over time, it mellows into a warm, honeyed heart where heliotrope, mimosa, and jasmine create a soft, powdery floral cloud, seamlessly balanced by the dry, woody depth of agarwood and guaiac. The dry down is soulful and persistent: smoky, slightly bitter, and thick with resinous ambergris and musk, with a sense of quiet elegance that lingers for hours. While some find this progression a striking artful journey, others perceive it as harsh, overwhelming, or rancid. Its longevity and sillage are exceptional, especially for nighttime wear—its projection lingers strongly for well over 10 hours, making it ideal for formal or dramatic occasions. Despite its polarizing nature, it is widely acknowledged as a masterpiece of olfactory storytelling, capturing the essence of a moth’s quiet, eerie beauty with profound depth and atmospheric complexity.